3-axis and indexed 3+2: the practical difference
A plain-language introduction to the two milling workflows at the centre of CAM Wizard's intended scope.
Three axes, one orientation
In a typical 3-axis milling operation, the cutting motion uses the machine's three linear axes while the tool orientation remains fixed relative to the setup.
Reaching a different face may require a new setup or a different way of holding the part. Tool access and workholding still determine what is practical.
Index first, then cut
Indexed 3+2 machining uses rotary positioning to establish an orientation before the cutting operation. The machining then proceeds at that fixed orientation.
This can provide access to additional faces, subject to the machine, tooling, workholding and available travel. The number of axes alone does not establish that a particular operation is suitable.
Understand the product scope
CAM Wizard is being built for supported 3-axis and indexed 3+2 milling workflows. Simultaneous five-axis cutting, where rotary axes move through the cut, is outside the intended scope described here.
For either workflow, review the setup and operations in Fusion and verify the machine-specific output before running the job.
Explore the product behind the thinking.
Meet CAM Wizard